“I grew up in Afghanistan until the Taliban invasion of August 2021. My family had no choice but to split up and seek refuge in neighbouring countries.
My first year in Canada was the hardest. I had a challenging time making friends and was not motivated to socialize or connect with my local community. I joined a program at ISSofBC and began making friends and connecting with the community. These experiences helped me work on my communication, social skills, confidence, and self-esteem.
Looking back on my first year, I can’t believe how much has changed. I never thought I would see my older siblings again and be as happy as I am now.” – ISSofBC client
Join us for Giving Tuesday, the world’s largest genorsity movement, on December 3, 2024 to support refugees from around the world as they build their lives in British Columbia.
Over the past 50 years since ISSofBC was founded, we’ve supported thousands of refugees from around the world who have come to Canada in search of safety for themselves and their families.
This year, we are asking for your support in our important work that is working towards making Canada a diverse, dynamic, and welcoming country for future generations.
How your donation can make a difference
This year we are asking for your support so we can better support refugees in BC.
Refugees face immense difficulties before and after their arrival in Canada. Many experience language barriers, poverty, isolation, poor mental health, and culture shock.
This is why your donation is so important, as it will allow us to empower refugees so they can thrive in BC.
How can I support ISSofBC?
If you are able to give money please do so below through CanadaHelps (see above). A small monthly donation will help to enhance our programs and the support we can offer our clients.
Alternatively, you can volunteer with ISSofBC either as a translator, event support, or mentor. You can learn more about how volunteers support our work on our Volunteer pages.
We are grateful for whatever you can give us, big or small.
Together, we can build a British Columbia that we can all be proud of!
